Analysis: What could Aleksandr Golovin bring to Chelsea?

Russian play-maker Aleksandr Golovin could be on his way to Stamford Bridge, but how will he fit into Maurizio Sarri’s team?

Aleksandr Golovin announced himself on the biggest stage this summer with his fantastic displays for Russia as they hosted the Fifa World Cup.

The team defied all pre-tournament expectations by advancing to the quarterfinals, ultimately losing to eventual finalists Croatia on penalties.

The CSKA Moscow midfielder stood out as he dictated Russia’s play going forward whilst exhibiting brilliant technical ability and superb vision on the ball.

Living the London life?

The 22-year-old has put himself firmly in the shop window and Premier League giants Chelsea have come calling.

Speculation has been rife all summer over the Russian’s most likely destination but it seems that the Londoner’s may have beaten the likes of Juventus and AS Monaco to the punch, according to Sky Sports.

His club teammate Sergey Chepchugov dropped the biggest hint that a deal may be close to completion with his latest Instagram post, during which he wished Golovin luck at Chelsea.

Should this piece of business be confirmed in the coming days, it would represent a shrewd acquisition for Sarri and his second signing since joining The Blues from Napoli two weeks ago.

How would Golovin fit in at Chelsea?

How the Italian will choose to line up his starting XI is anyone’s guess but the Russian youngster could quite easily slot into Chelsea’s current midfield.

Cesc Fabregas would probably be the most likely casualty as a result, but if last year is anything to go by the Spaniard’s best years are behind him and a less prominent role might actually suit him better.

Golovin is creative, nimble and likes to get on the ball to exert an influence in games, which makes him exactly the kind of player Chelsea missed last season.

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Outgoing manager Antonio Conte failed to replicate the same success he’d enjoyed at the club the year before and the team struggled to manufacture openings on a regular basis.

The loss of Nemanja Matic to Manchester United in last summer’s transfer window had a big impact, as his replacement Tiémoué Bakayoko was unable to live up to the same high standards in a defensive midfield role.

But now, with the recent arrival of Jorginho from Napoli – as per BBC Sport – Chelsea may once again have found the perfect link between defence and attack.

For Golovin to thrive he needs to be receiving the ball high up the pitch, where he can really affect games and manufacture openings. Conte’s tactics last season were often described as negative and the teams build up play was far too slow and methodical at times.

However, Sarri drew fame and admiration for his time in Naples due to the fact he favours attacking football. If he can get his Chelsea side playing in the same vain – quick passing with clever movement and width – then the diminutive Russian could devastate Premier League defences.

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho summed up Golovin’s impact after Russia’s 4-0 win against Saudi Arabia in their opening World Cup game, speaking to Russia Today.

“If they look for example to Golovin, if they look to him, the first touch, the first control, the speed of the pass, always correct,” said the Portuguese coach.

If Chelsea are to regain their place in the Champions League next season as well as re-emerge as genuine title contenders, then adding another creative midfielder is a must.

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With so many years at the top of the game ahead of him and boundless talent in his boots, Golovin may well provide the team with exactly what they need in the middle of the park and rise as Stamford bridge’s newest hero.

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